THE DROP-BACK: Wednesday September 8 - brady's talking about the rules again

buccaneers

Once again, because no one has benefitted more from the rules in the NFL, Tom Brady is speaking out about how he doesn't like one of the new rules - the new jersey number rule. So, this one I agree with him on. Brady is pissed that it's harder to keep track of player position during in-game situations, as well as watching on film. "I'm playing two guys who had different numbers in the preseason. So, yeah, you've got to watch film and know who you're studying but so do running backs. They've got to know who to block. So does the offensive line. So do the receivers who are adjusting their routes based on blitzes."

patriots

Heads were scratched when the New England Patriots cut presumed starting quarterback Cam Newton in favor of rookie Mac Jones instead of just keeping him as the backup. People questioned Newton's work ethic, commitment to the team, and vaccination status as reasons for his dismissal. However, head coach Bill Belichick says none of that was the problem, and Newton gave the Patriots his all. "I have nothing but positive thoughts and feelings for Cam. He came in here; he worked hard. He gave us everything he had. Right now, our future is going to be Mac at quarterback, and that is where we're going to go."

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Speaking of the rookie, Jones won the starting job fair and square, but that doesn't mean his work is done. Jones also had great things to say about Newton and his leadership and even added that they plan to keep in touch. Awww.

On Cam Newton, Jones says he was "obviously a really good mentor to me." Adds they'll stay in touch.

"I never felt like we were butting heads or anything like that. Obviously Cam's a great guy and a great player, and hopefully he lands somewhere." https://t.co/Hop6mU6GkG

— Phil Perry (@PhilAPerry) September 7, 2021

cowboys

This year, Dak Prescott is bracing for a tremendous comeback season with the Dallas Cowboys, but it'll be at a lesser price. After signing his huge ass deal earlier this offseason, Prescott was set to make $9 million in 2021. Instead, the team converted just over $6 million into a signing bonus, freeing up $5 million in cap space. The Cowboys also restructured running back Ezekiel Elliott's contract this offseason. 

- other notes -

• Sean McVay says the Rams will include Justin Fields​ in their preparation against the Bears.
• Jake Browning signed to the Bengals' practice squad.
• Devlin Hodges​ tried out for the Patriots.